February 13, 2007 - With physicians in the District reporting an increase of patients with flu-like symptoms, the Health Unit advises the public to take extra precautions to avoid getting or spreading illness this season.

“We know influenza is in the District. We’ve had a few reported cases,” said Darlene Binette, Manager of the Health Unit’s Infectious Diseases Program. “So we recommend you get a flu shot if you haven’t yet,” she added.

“Also, a few simple measures can greatly reduce your chances of spreading a flu virus or getting one. Washing your hands often and sneezing or coughing into your sleeve can make a big difference.”

Some of the simple steps for preventing the spread of infections include:

·          Washing your hands: Handwashing with soap and water for at least 15 seconds is the number one way to prevent infection. Or, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

·          Getting a flu shot: Visit your family doctor or drop into the Health Unit’s Immunization Clinic on Wednesdays from 1:30 to 5:30 p.m. for a flu vaccine.

·          Sneezing and coughing into your sleeve, or into a tissue:   Avoid sneezing or coughing in your hands because the germs caught in your hands can be transferred to the places you touch. If others touch those places they can then pick up the germs. Instead, cough and sneeze into your sleeve or into a tissue to trap the germs. Make sure to discard the tissue right away.

·          Staying home if you’re ill: Don’t expose others to your sickness. Stay home and get better before going back to work or school, or before participating in any activities where you come in contact with others. Especially avoid contact with children, seniors or those with chronic illnesses whose immune systems may already be weakened by disease.

Flu season usually takes place from December to early April. Currently there are no influenza outbreaks in the District. 

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